Untitled Sermon (5)

THE TRANSFIGURATION

THE TRANSFIGURATION

As Peter, James, and John were with Jesus, they saw Him transfigured. One who prays will see his own life changed by the power of God. Also, He will prepare us for the tasks we must fulfill. Without prayer, we are useless and helpless.

I. CHANGE—vv. 28–36

1. Seeking—v. 28. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John to the mountain to pray.

2. Supernatural—vv. 29–31. As He prays, He is transfigured. Moses and Elijah appear: Moses—law; Elijah—prophets.

3. Sleeping—v. 32. The disciples, asleep, now awaken!

4. Selfishness—v. 33. Peter wants to stay there. God gives us His blessings to share with others!

5. Satisfaction—vv. 34–35. God is pleased with His Son.

6. Secret—v. 36. This is all to be kept a secret.

II. CONTROL—vv. 37–43

1. People—v. 37. Many people meet them as they come down.

2. Problem—vv. 38–39. A man possessed with a demon needs help, deliverance.

3. Powerless—v. 40. The disciples had been unable to cast out the demon. They were helpless and powerless.

4. Power—vv. 41–43. Jesus casts out the demon. It took special power to do this.

III. CHILDLIKE—vv. 44–50

1. Prophecy—vv. 44–45. Christ speaks of His death. The disciples do not seem to understand.

2. Pride—vv. 46–48. Selfish pride is shown. Jesus takes a child as an example of true greatness.

3. Personality—vv. 49–50. At times people may not agree on minor points, but if it means advancing the kingdom of God, cooperate and don’t oppose.

IV. CONVERSION—vv. 51–56

1. Preparation—vv. 51–52. Messengers go ahead into Samaria to prepare people for Christ’s coming.

2. Problem—v. 53. The people do not accept Him.

3. Patience—v. 54. James and John are ready to call fire from heaven to destroy them. They have no patience.

4. Pardon—vv. 55–56. Christ rebukes them. He hadn’t come to destroy lives—He came to save lives.

Christ had an answer in every situation. He had the right parable, or example, to teach man in the proper ways. Yet, many refused to accept Him as the Messiah. We might say that they didn’t want to accept Him as the Messiah because it would demand a change in their mode of living.